Jesse Lingard Bids Emotional Farewell To FC Seoul After Two Seasons

Jesse Lingard closed his South Korean chapter with one last flash of brilliance, scoring in his final appearance for FC Seoul before an emotional goodbye that left both fans and player in tears.

The 32-year-old former Manchester United and England midfielder announced earlier in the week that Wednesday’s AFC Champions League clash against Melbourne City would be his last outing for the club. He marked the moment in style, coolly finishing in the 31st minute to give Seoul the lead in a match that eventually ended 1–1. His celebration, a smooth Michael Jackson-inspired moonwalk drew roars from the home crowd.

After the final whistle, Lingard stood on the pitch as a tribute video lit up the stadium screen, hailing him as “Our beloved captain” and declaring that his name “will always be remembered in the history of our club.” Overwhelmed, he wiped away tears before joining teammates for a lap of honour.

Lingard, who joined FC Seoul in February last year and made 60 appearances, said he spent “a happy two years” in South Korea and credited the experience with deepening his maturity and expanding his sense of responsibility.

“I’ve learned a lot… I’ve become more mature. I’ve had a lot of responsibility this year being captain,” said the former England international, who featured in the 2018 World Cup semi-final. “I can leave South Korea more mature, I believe.”

Melbourne City drew level midway through the second half, but for Seoul fans, the night belonged to Lingard, a captain, a crowd favourite, and now a cherished chapter in the club’s history.